Oman's Sohar Port and Freezone is planning to start operation of a new bulk terminal aimed at facilitating the export of locally mined construction aggregate (primarily crushed rock, gravel and sand) to other markets in the wider Gulf region, said a report.

The proposed bulk terminal, which is a part of the deep water bulk jetty currently operated by Brazilian-based mining giant Vale at Sohar, will help local mining and quarrying firms target big-ticket infrastructure projects currently under way in parts of the GCC, Marc Evertse, executive commercial manager, was quoted as saying in an Oman Daily Observer report.

He added that the 270-m-long terminal, which was built in conjunction with the construction of the Vale jetty, is being prepared to handle large volumes of construction material for export.

Evertse pointed out that the demand for primary construction aggregate has soared in countries such as Qatar and Bahrain, where billions of dollars are being invested in major civil infrastructure schemes.  

He also highlighted that the sultanate, given its proximity to these markets and as a source of high-quality materials, is billed as a promising export market.

Evertse further revealed that the terminal is in the process of being prepared for handling large quantities of dry bulk, in particular aggregates

He noted that there is strong pressure from the domestic market to facilitate exports of aggregates.